Storm damage: 21 Western Cape schools CLOSED

The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) reported that 21 schools were closed on Wednesday due to storm damage throughout the province.

Minister of Education in Western Cape, David Maynier said, according to the most recent information they have, the storms over the weekend in the Western Cape have had an impact on 249 schools.

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How many learners are unable to attend school?

On Tuesday, there were 39 schools closed, on Wednesday, there were only 21 schools closed, the vast majority as a result of blocked access roads to schools.

“Since the storms over the weekend, Franschhoek High School has been closed. This morning I went there. 650 students are unable to attend school as a result of the lack of electricity and water supplies, as well as significant flooding on the access roads,” Maynier said.

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Storm damage impact on learners

As students struggle to travel to schools in flood-damaged areas, many schools have reported low attendance even when other schools are functioning. According to preliminary attendance data, 30.1% and 31.4% of the students were unable to attend class on Tuesday and Wednesday, respectively.

“Our authorities are working with the schools to make sure that they can all reopen as soon as possible, and we advise parents to stay in touch with them for updates on closures.

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“To prevent students from falling behind due to the missed school days this week, our schools will put in place catch-up plans. This Friday, 29 September 2023, is the last day of classes before the spring break, which will provide the repairs and access restoration some breathing room,” he added.

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